Nikon SB-800 Bedienungsanleitung

En Printed in Japan TT3H03000101 (11) 8MSA0611-- No reproduction in any form of this manual, in whole or in part (except for brief quotation in critical articles or reviews), may be made without written authorization from NIKON CORPORA TION. SB - 800 (En) SB-800 Autofocus Speedlight Instruction Manual[...]

2 Contents Preparation · Forewor d ............................................................................4-6 · Tips on using the Speedlight ................................................7 · Camera groups and available flash modes ......................8-9 · Speedlight parts and their functions .............................10-11 · Contr[...]

3 Preparation This section provides preliminary information on using the SB-800. Basic operation Basic procedures to take simple, properly exposed flash photographs in the TTL auto flash mode. Detailed operation A variety of flash modes av ailable with the SB-800 are explained. Other functions Detailed information on each function of the SB-800 is [...]

4 Foreword Thank you f or purchasing the Nik on Speedlight SB-800. T o get the most out of your Speedlight, please read this instruction manual thoroughly bef ore use. Also, read the separate booklet, “Enter the e xciting world of Nikon’ s Creative Lighting System with the SB-800, ” which provides an o verview of the SB-800’ s flash-shootin[...]

5 The SB-800 features a new Nikon Speedlight system, called Creative Lighting System or “ CLS .” This system offers additional flash shooting possibilities with digital SLRs by taking advantage of camera’ s digital communication capabilities. CLS is available only when the SB-800 is used with compatible Nikon SLRs cameras. The SB-800 offers t[...]

6 Foreword ■ ■ ■ Notes • Default: Functions and flash modes preset when shipped fr om the factory are r eferred to as “Default” settings in this manual. • CLS: Hereafter , Nikon’ s new Speedlight system “ C r eative L ighting S ystem” is abbreviated “ CLS .” ■ ■ ■ Marks used in this manual • v : Denotes important poi[...]

7 T ips on using the Speedlight T ake trial shots Make trial shots before photographing important occasions like weddings or graduations. Have Nik on spot-check y our Speedlight regularl y Nikon recommends that you have your Speedlight serviced by an authorized dealer or service center at least once every two years. Using your Speedlight correctl y[...]

In this manual, Nikon SLR cameras are divided into nine gr oups: cameras compatible with CLS * , digital SLRs not compatible with CLS * , and cameras in Groups I to VII unless otherwise noted. First, consult the camera gr oup table to see which group your camera belongs to. Then as you r ead the manual, you will find specific information on how to [...]

9 Non-TTL auto flash mode (p. 38) Manual mode ( p . 42) Wireless multiple flash p Advanced BA Distance- Gq Wireless SU-4 type Auto Non-TTL priority Manual Repeating Lighting (master flash) Aperture flash auto flash manual flash flash (p. 76) (p. 84) flash * 2 * 3 * 3 – – – –– –– –– * 5 –– –– The SB-800’ s available flash[...]

10 Speedlight parts and their functions 1 Control b utton quick reference (p. 12) 2 Flash head (p. 100) Can be tilted up to 90° or down to –7°, and rotated horizontally 180° to the left and 90° to the right. 3 Flash head tilting/rotating loc k release button (p . 22) 4 Light sensor window f or wireless remote flash (p. 74) 5 Battery chamber l[...]

11 16 Flash head tilting angle scale (p. 100 ) 17 Modeling illuminator button (p. 66) Press to fire flash repeatedly to check the illumination and the shadows cast on the subject before taking pictures. Wireless remote flash cancel button (p. 75) The SB-800 will not fire, while this button is pressed. 18 Flash head rotating angle scale (p. 100) 19 [...]

12 Control buttons Recalling the underexposure v alue in the TTL auto flash mode Press the a and g buttons simultaneously to recall the underexposur e value (p. 33). Resetting the settings Press the a and b buttons simultaneously for approx. 2 sec. to r eset all settings, including the custom settings (except the distance unit selected in m/ft) to [...]

13 Icons on the LCD panel Auto Aperture flash In addition to Non-TTL auto A flash (see below), the SB-800’ s built-in sensor correctly contr ols the flash output in combination with data automatically transmitted from the camera and lens to the SB-800, including the ISO sensitivity , aperture, focal length, and exposure compensation value (p. 38)[...]

14 Icons on the LCD panel The wide-area AF-assist illuminator is activated The wide-area AF-assist illuminator comes on (p. 62). The wide-area AF-assist illuminator is canceled The wide-area AF-assist illuminator does not come on (p. 62). Flash firing canceled The SB-800 does not fire but the wide-area AF-assist illuminator still comes on (p. 62). [...]

15 ■ ■ ■ Highlighted items Highlighted items indicate that they can be set or changed. The highlighted items return to normal after 8 seconds unless an adjustment is made. *CLS: Creative Lighting System (p. 5) ■ ■ ■ Icons with multiple flash units Icons in the Advanced Wireless Lighting mode Master (CLS*) Represents the settings of the [...]

16 Lenses In this manual, Nikkor lenses are divided into two types: CPU Nikkor lenses and non-CPU Nikkor lenses. CPU Nikkor lenses G-type Nikkor , D-type Nikkor , Non-G/D-type AF Nikkor (except for AF Nikkor for the F3AF), AI-P Nikkor Non-CPU Nikkor lenses AI-S Nikkor , AI Nikkor , Series E, etc. CPU lenses CPU lenses have CPU contacts. G-type Nikk[...]

Basic operation In this section, basic procedures are illustrated so that you can easil y perf orm flash photography in the TTL auto flash mode. Y ou can easily perform flash photograph y b y follo wing Steps 1 – 8 on the left-hand pages. In this section, basic procedures are described when a CPU lens is mounted on cameras compatible with CLS*, d[...]

18 1 Slide open the battery chamber lid in the direction of the arrow . 2 Install the batteries following the i and j marks as shown. Align the batter y chamber lid attachment index es , then close the battery chamber lid by sliding it into place while pressing down. v Usable batteries Install four AA-type penlight batteries (1.5V or lower) of any [...]

19 ■ ■ ■ Minimum n umber of flashes and recyc ling times When using four (or five) fresh batteries of the same type and the Speedlight fires at M1/1 output. Batteries Number of Min. recycling time Min. number of flashes/ batteries (appro x.) recyc ling time Alkaline- x4 6.0 sec. 130 / 6-30 sec. manganese x5 5.0 sec. 130 / 5-30 sec. Lithium x4[...]

20 1 Press the b button f or appro x. 0.3 sec. to turn on the SB-800. Mak e sure the ready-light comes on. 2 Press the FLASH button to test fire the flash. ■ ■ ■ T est firing CA UTION! When test firing the Speedlight, never position your eyes close to the flash head. • The SB-800 fires at specified output in the Manual flash mode or at appr[...]

21 t Standby function to conserve battery power If the SB-800 and the camera are not used for mor e than a specified time, the standby function activates and automatically turns the SB-800 off to conserve battery power (it goes into the standby mode). • In the standby mode, the R indicator appears on the LCD panel. • When in the standby mode, t[...]

22 1 Make sure the SB-800 and the camera body are turned off. 2 Rotate the mounting foot loc k le v er to the left, slide the SB-800’ s mounting f oot into the camera’ s accessory shoe and turn the lock le v er to the right. 3 Hold down the flash head tilting/rotating lock release b utton to adjust the flash head to the horizontal/front positio[...]

23 adjust the flash head t W arning indication If the flash head is not adjusted to the horizontal/front position, when the power is turned on, this war ning appears on the LCD panel. See page 100 for the flash head’ s rotating angle. • A dotted line below the underbar appears when the flash head is tilted down –7°. • The flash shooting di[...]

24 In this manual, the sensitivity for digital SLRs and the film speed for film-based cameras are generally r eferred to as ISO sensitivity . For cameras compatible with CLS, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS and cameras in Groups I to II, the ISO sensitivity is automatically set and appears on the LCD panel when the camera and SB-800 are turned[...]

25 ■ ■ ■ Setting the ISO sensitivity for cameras in Gr oups III to VII For cameras in Groups III to VII, set the ISO sensitivity in the Custom settings mode (p. 67). 1 T ur n the SB-800 off once, then turn it back on. After that, tur n on the camera body . 2 Press the g button f or appro x. 2 sec. to display the Custom settings mode . 3 Press[...]

1 The zoom-head position is indicated on the LCD panel. • The zoom-head position is automatically adjusted by the power zoom function or it can be manually adjusted. • The guide number indicating flash output level varies according to the zoom-head position (p. 43). ■ ■ ■ The power zoom function When the SB-800 is used with cameras compat[...]

27 ■ ■ ■ Setting the zoom-head position manually When the SB-800 is used with cameras in Groups III to VII in combination with a non-CPU lens, or you want to change the zoom-head position to one that does not match the focal length, you should adjust the zoom-head position manually . • Press the c button to move toward a wideangle setting a[...]

28 1 Set the camera’ s e xposure mode to Programmed A uto (P). • If Programmed Auto (P) cannot be set, select another exposure mode. See the opposite page. 2 Set the camera’ s metering system to Matrix Metering Y . • If Matrix Metering Y cannot be set, select Center -Weighted Metering W . t Exposure mode and metering system The camera’ s [...]

29 metering system u Exposure modes other than Programmed A uto e xposure (P) In Shutter-Priority A uto exposure (S) mode By selecting a slower shutter speed, the proper exposur e for the background can be achieved. • The camera selects the correct aperture. For details, see your camera’ s instruction manual. However , set the shutter speed on [...]

30 7 Setting the SB-800’ s flash mode 1 Press the a button to set the flash mode. • Display Do on the LCD panel. 2 Confirm that the main subject is within the flash shooting distance range. ■ ■ ■ Selecting the flash mode Every time you press the a button, the available flash mode icon changes. Refer to “Icons on the LCD panel” (p. 13)[...]

31 ■ ■ ■ About the flash shooting distance range The SB-800’ s flash shooting distance range is 0.6m to 20m (2 to 66 ft.) and varies, depending on the ISO sensitivity , zoom-head position, and lens aperture in use. Flash shooting distance range in the TTL auto flash mode * 1 With the Nikon Diffusion Dome attached and the wide-flash adapter [...]

32 1 Confirm the camera ’ s sync mode. • For normal flash photography , use the camera ’ s Front-curtain sync mode. 2 Compose the picture, confirm that the ready-light on the SB-800 ’ s LCD panel or in the camera ’ s vie wfinder is on, then shoot. v Set the camera ’ s flash sync mode to Front-curtain sync. With cameras featuring a Rear [...]

33 v If the ready-light blinks after shooting, the light might be insufficient for correct e xposure. In the TTL auto and Non-TTL auto flash modes, when the flash has fir ed at its maximum output and underexposur e may have occurred, the r eady-lights on the SB-800 and in the camera ’ s viewfinder blink for approx. 3 sec. Depending on the camera [...]

34 Using the SB-800 with COOLPIX digital cameras For COOLPIX cameras, such as the COOLPIX 5400 and 4500, having an accessory shoe (hot-shoe) or TTL multiple flash terminal: When more powerful illumination is requir ed or when perfor ming multiple flash, it is recommended to connect the SB-800 or another Nikon Speedlight compatible with TTL auto fla[...]

Detailed operation This section pro vides a v ariety of flash modes av ailable with the SB-800. Be sure to refer to y our camera ’ s instruction manual f or specific information on camera settings and functions.[...]

36 SB-800’ s available flash modes The SB-800 ’ s available flash modes var y , depending on the cameras and lenses in use or the camera ’ s exposure mode. Using the TTL auto flash mode is recommended for normal flash photography . ■ ■ ■ A v ailable flash modes (Indicators , usable camer as) TTL auto flash mode • i-TTL mode: Do / D : [...]

Detailed operation 37 TTL auto flash mode ■ ■ ■ TTL auto flash: D In this mode, the flash illumination that is reflected back fr om the subject is detected by the camera ’ s TTL auto flash sensor and the camera automatically controls the flash output level to give the corr ect exposure. Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash: Do Press the a button t[...]

38 Non-TTL auto flash mode A uto Aperture B flash The SB-800 ’ s built-in sensor measures the flash illumination reflected fr om the subject and controls the flash output in combination with data automatically transmitted from the camera and lens to the SB-800, including the ISO sensitivity value and exposure compensation value as well as the ape[...]

Detailed operation 39 5 Compose the picture, confirm that the ready-light is on, then shoot. • When the flash has fired at its maximum output and underexposure may have occurr ed, the ready-light on the SB-800 blinks for approx. 3 sec. T o compensate, use a wider aperture or move closer to the subject and reshoot. ■ ■ ■ Setting the aperture[...]

40 Non-TTL auto flash mode Non-TTL auto A flash The SB-800 ’ s built-in sensor measures the flash illumination reflected fr om the subject, automatically controlling the SB-800 ’ s light output to give the correct exposure. This allows you to make exposur e compensation (p. 54) easily by varying the aper tur e set on the camera or lens. • No [...]

Detailed operation 41 5 Set the camera to its highest flash sync shutter speed. • For details, see your camera ’ s instruction manual. 6 Compose the picture, mak e sure the ready-light is on, then shoot. • When the flash has fired at its maximum output and underexposure may have occurr ed, the ready-light on the SB-800 blinks for approx. 3 se[...]

42 Manual mode Manual mode The SB-800 features thr ee manual modes. • Distance-priority manual flash p • Manual flash G • Repeating flash q Y ou can calculate the correct aperture by using the guide number table and the shooting distance. Then set the same aperture manually on the lens. In this case, set the camera ’ s exposure mode to Aper[...]

43 T o calculate the correct aper ture Calculate the correct aperture by using this equation and the guide number table, according to the ISO sensitivity , flash output level and zoom-head position that are set: f/stop (aperture) = Guide number (GN) x ISO sensitivity factor ÷ Shooting distance (m/ft) • Set the same aperture on both the SB-800 an[...]

44 Manual mode Distance-priority manual p flash In this flash operation, the SB-800 automatically controls the light output according to the distance value and aperture set. Enter the distance value and you can take pictures having the same exposur e even when shooting at differ ent apertures. • This mode allows you to make exposure compensation [...]

45 5 Set the aper ture that appears on the SB-800 ’ s LCD panel on the lens or camera. • With cameras in Groups III to VII. 6 Confirm that the ready-light is on, then shoot. ■ ■ ■ Distance values that can be entered when perf orming Distance-priority manual p flash operation (m/ft.) 0.3/1 0.4/1.3 0.5/1.6 0.6/2 0.7/2.3 0.8/2.6 0.9/3 1.0/3.[...]

46 Manual mode Manual G flash In Manual flash photography , you select the aperture and flash output level. In this way , you can control the exposur e and flash shooting distance when shooting subjects where the corr ect exposure is dif ficult to obtain in the TTL or Non-TTL auto flash mode. The flash output level can be set from M1/1 (full output[...]

47 Detailed operation 6 Set the same aper ture on your camera or lens that is set on the SB-800. • With cameras in Groups III to VII. 7 Confirm that the ready-light comes on, then shoot. ■ ■ ■ Setting the flash output level Press the g button to highlight the flash output level display . The flash output level changes every time you press t[...]

48 Manual mode Repeating q flash In Repeating flash operation, the SB-800 fires r epeatedly during a single exposure, cr eating stroboscopic multiple-exposur e effects. This operation is useful when shooting fast-moving subjects. • In this operation, q appears on the LCD panel. • Be sure to use fresh or fully charged batteries and allow enough [...]

49 2 Press the a button to displa y q . 3 Press the g button to highlight the flash output lev el displa y , then press the e or f button to increase or decrease the values . • The available range of the flash output level is between 1/8 and 1/128. 4 Press the g button. • The flash output level is set, then the frequency display is highlighted.[...]

50 Manual mode 7 Set the same aper ture on the camera or lens that is set on the SB-800. • With cameras in Groups III to VII. 8 Set the shutter speed. • Use the equation to determine the shutter speed and use that shutter speed or one slower . Shutter speed = Number of flashes per frame ÷ Frequency of flashes (Hz) • For example, if the numbe[...]

51 Notes on continuous flash shooting Do not exceed the maxim um number of continuous firings Y ou should allow the SB-800 to cool off for at least 10 minutes after the maximum number of continuous firings are performed as shown in the table below: Max. number of contin uous firings Flash mode Max. number of continuous firings (at 6 frames/sec.) TT[...]

52 Checking the correct exposure before shooting Y ou can determine whether the subject will receive the correct exposur e by test firing the SB-800 before actually taking the pictur e in TTL auto flash, Auto Aperture, and Non-TTL auto flash operations. • In manual flash mode, checking the correct exposur e cannot be perfor med by test firing. ?[...]

Other functions Detailed information on eac h function of the SB-800 is pro vided.[...]

54 Exposure compensation and flash output level Exposure compensation allows you to take well-balanced pictur es by intentionally modifying the flash exposure. This is useful when a subject of extremely high or low r eflectivity is included in the scene or when you want to create flash photographs to match your cr eative prefer ences. • Some plus[...]

55 compensation Making exposure compensation in Non-TTL auto flash and Manual flash operations Exposure compensation is performed by intentionally modifying the correct aperture. • In the Non-TTL auto flash mode, the correct exposur e can be obtained when the same aperture is set on the camera as that set on the SB-800. Therefore, to make exposur[...]

56 Exposure compensation and flash output level compensation ■ ■ ■ Flash output level compensation Y ou can make exposure compensation for the flash illuminated subject without affecting the backgr ound exposure by modifying the SB-800 ’ s flash output level. • Available in TTL auto flash mode, Auto Aperture flash and Distance-priority ma[...]

57 Flash shooting distance range with zoom lenses having a variable aperture With zoom lenses having a variable aperture, take note of the following before setting the aperture on the SB-800 and confirming the flash shooting distance range. • For details, read the instruction manuals of your camera and lenses. u Lenses having a v ariable aperture[...]

58 Slow-sync flash mode, Red-eye reduction control, ■ ■ ■ Slow-sync flash The flash is controlled at a slow shutter speed to obtain the corr ect exposure for both the main subject and background in low-light situations or at night. • Available with cameras providing slow-sync. Y ou cannot set the slow-sync function on the SB-800 directly , [...]

59 and Rear -curtain sync ■ ■ ■ Rear-curtain sync In normal flash photography , when shooting fast-moving subjects at slow shutter speeds, unnatural-looking pictures can occur , because the subject frozen by the flash appears behind or within the blurred movement (see photo below right). Rear -curtain flash sync creates a pictur e in which th[...]

60 Auto FP High-Speed Sync mode (for cameras compatible with CLS) High-Speed flash synchronization at your camera ’ s highest shutter speed is now possible. In this mode, the Auto FP High-Speed Sync mode is automatically set when the shutter speed exceeds the camera ’ s sync shutter speed. This is useful when you want to use a wider aperture to[...]

61 Flash V alue Lock (FV Lock) (for cameras compatible with CLS) Flash V alue, or “ FV , ” is the amount of flash exposur e for the subject. Using FV Lock with compatible cameras, you can lock in the appropriate flash exposur e for the main subject. This flash exposure r emains locked in, even if you change the aperture or composition, or zoom [...]

62 Autofocus flash operation in dim light When the light is too dim for normal autofocus operation, the SB-800 ’ s Wide- Area AF-Assist Illuminator enables you to perform autofocus flash photography . • In dim light, the Wide-Area AF-Assist Illuminator turns on automatically when the camera ’ s shutter release button is lightly pressed, if an[...]

63 v Notes on using the Wide-Area AF-Assist Illuminator • If the focus indicator does not appear in the camera ’ s viewfinder even through the Wide- Area AF-Assist Illuminator turns on, focus manually . • The Wide-Area AF-Assist Illuminator will not light up, if the camera ’ s autofocus is locked or the SB-800 ’ s ready-light does not com[...]

64 Using the Quick Recycling Batter y Pack SD-800 Use the provided quick r ecycling battery pack to install five batteries to shor ten the recycling time (p. 19). Notes on using the Quick Recyc ling Battery P ack SD-800 • With the SD-800 attached, be sure to use five batteries. • Be sure to replace all five batteries, including the one in this [...]

65 3 Open the quick recycling battery pack ’ s battery chamber lid, then install an extr a battery in the Quick Recycling Battery Pac k f ollowing the i and j mar ks. 4 Inser t the batter y chamber lid in the groov e at the top of the quick recycling battery pack. 5 Align the battery chamber lid attachment indexes , then attach the battery chambe[...]

66 Checking the illumination before actually taking the picture (Modeling illuminator) Press the Modeling illuminator button and the flash fir es repeatedly at a reduced flash output level. This is useful for checking the illumination and the shadows cast on the subject before actually taking the pictur e. • The flash fires as a Modeling illumina[...]

67 Custom functions The SB-800 can easily set, activate, or cancel various operations using the Custom settings as shown below . Icons appearing on the LCD panel vary depending on the settings and the camera/lens combinations. No icon appears when the settings are not a v ailab le . For details on setting custom functions, see “ Custom settings ?[...]

68 Custom settings ■ ■ ■ Setting Custom functions 1 Press the g button f or appro x. 2 sec. to display the Custom settings mode. 2 Press the e or f button and c or d button on the Multi Selector to choose the desired custom functions to be set, then press the g button. 3 Press the e or f button to highlight the preferred setting. • Press th[...]

69 ■ ■ ■ Details on Custom settings (Bold: default setting) ISO sensitivity (p. 24) The available ISO sensitivity range is ISO 3 to 8000. Pressing the e or f button increases or decrease the value in incr ements of 1/3 step. Pressing the e or f button continuously increases or decreases the value quickly . • 100 Wireless flash mode (p. 72) [...]

70 Custom settings Selecting the distance unit of measure (m, ft) Setting the distance unit of measure on the LCD panel to either meters “ m ” or feet “ ft ” . • m : meters • ft : feet P ower zoom function (p. 26) Setting to activate or cancel the power zoom function, which adjusts the zoom-head position automatically . • OFF : Activa[...]

Advanced operations Information on ad vanced flash shooting techniques using the SB-800 is described in this section.[...]

72 Over view of multiple flash operation Multiple flash photography allows you to create mor e natural-looking pictures by using several flash units to emphasize the subject ’ s shape or eliminate shadows. The following wireless multiple flash operations ar e available: Multiple flash operation Advanced Wireless Lighting (p. 76) SU-4 type wireles[...]

73 ■ ■ ■ Be sure to cancel Monitor Preflashes (in TTL multiple flash operation) In SU-4 type wireless multiple flash and multiple flash using cor ds, cancel the Monitor Preflashes of the master flash unit following one of the methods described below , since Monitor Pr eflashes cause incorrect exposur e. SB-800 1 Set the SU-4 type wireless mul[...]

74 Wireless multiple flash shooting Read the following when setting up the SB-800 as a remote flash unit in the Advanced Wireless Lighting and SU-4 type wir eless multiple flash modes. ■ ■ ■ Speedlight and camera placement Set up the camera, master flash unit, and remote flash units as shown in the figure below . Notes on flash shooting in Ad[...]

75 ■ ■ ■ Using the Speedlight Stand Use the provided Speedlight Stand AS-19 for stable placement of the r emote flash units. • Y ou can also use the stand for setting up your Nikon Speedlight when using it as a remote flash unit in multiple flash shooting using cor ds (p. 90). Attachment to the Speedlight Stand 1 Attach the SB-800 to the Sp[...]

76 When the SB-800 is used with Nikon cameras compatible with CLS, Adv anced Wireless Lighting is possible. In this mode, you can divide the remote flash units into a maximum of thr ee groups (A, B, C) and set the flash mode and flash output level compensation values separately for each group as well as the master flash unit, pr oviding automatic c[...]

77 Advanced oper ations ■ ■ ■ Settings in the Adv anced Wireless Lighting In this mode, set the following items on either the master flash unit or the remote flash units. Item Speedlight to be set Remarks Flash mode Master flash unit The following five flash modes are available: D : i-TTL mode B ( A ) : Auto Aperture flash (Non-TTL auto flash[...]

78 Flash shooting in Advanced Wireless Lighting ■ ■ ■ Setting the flash mode, flash output level compensation values, and channel number on the master flash unit. 1 Press the g button on the master flash unit to highlight “ M ” , then press the a button to choose the desired flash mode. 2 Press the e or f button to increase or decrease th[...]

79 ■ ■ ■ Setting a group and c hannel number on the remote flash units 1 Press the g button on the remote flash unit to highlight the channel number , then press the e or f button to set the channel number . • Be sure to choose the same channel number as set on the master flash unit. 2 Press the g button on the remote flash unit to highligh[...]

80 Flash shooting in Advanced Wireless Lighting ■ ■ ■ Examples of flash shooting in Adv anced Wireless Lighting Wireless multiple flash (three flash units) On-camera single flash The master flash unit M illuminates the subject while the light from the r emote flash unit A is bounced off the ceiling to illuminate the backgr ound and create a m[...]

81 Advanced oper ations 1 Set the camera ’ s e xposure mode to Aperture- Priority Auto (A). 2 Set the wireless flash mode of the on-camera SB-800 to MASTER using Custom Settings (p . 67). 3 Press the g button on the master flash unit to highlight “ M ” , then press the a button to choose D . 4 Press the e button on the master flash unit to se[...]

7 Press the g button on the master flash unit to highlight “ B ” , then press the a button to set the flash mode to G on the remote flash unit B. 8 Like wise, press the f b utton on the master flash unit to set the flash output lev el to 1/16 on the remote flash unit B. 9 Press the g button on the master flash unit to highlight the channel numb[...]

83 Advanced oper ations 13 Set the group of the remote flash units A and B. • Set the remote flash unit A to group A and the r emote flash unit B to group B. 14 Confirm that all the ready-lights of the master and remote flash units are on, then press the FLASH button on the master flash unit to test fire the units. • The master flash unit fires[...]

84 SU-4 type wireless multiple flash shooting SU-4 type wireless multiple flash can be performed in two ways: (1) In the A (auto) mode, in which the wireless r emote flash units start and stop firing in sync with the master Speedlight, and (2) in the M (manual) mode, in which the wireless r emote flash units only start firing in sync with the maste[...]

85 Advanced oper ations Setting the flash mode on the remote flash units 1 Detach the SB-800, which is already set to the SU-4 type wireless multiple flash mode, from the camera body . 2 The flash mode on the remote flash unit toggles between P A (auto) and P M (manual) ev ery time you press the a b utton. A (auto) mode • In the A (auto) mode, th[...]

■ ■ ■ Wireless multiple flash shooting in the A (auto) mode 1 Set the camera ’ s e xposure mode to Aperture- Priority Auto (A) or Manual (M). 2 Set up all Speedlights as the master and remote flash units. 3 Set the wireless flash mode of all SB-800 ’ s used as master and remote flash units to “ SU-4. ” 4 Press the a button on the remo[...]

87 Advanced oper ations ■ ■ ■ Wireless multiple flash shooting in the M (man ual) mode 1 Set the camera ’ s e xposure mode to Aperture- Priority Auto (A) or Manual (M). 2 Set up all Speedlights as the master and remote flash units. 3 Set the wireless flash mode of all SB-800 ’ s used as the master and remote flash units to “ SU-4. ” 4[...]

88 t Adjusting the flash output level of the remote flash units in the w (manual) mode. Adjusting the flash output level manuall y Use the following equation to determine the proper manual flash output level of the remote flash unit, depending on your cr eative prefer ences. GN = F x D where GN is the guide number of the remote flash unit (in meter[...]

89 Confirming wireless multiple flash operation using the ready-light or the beeping sound Advanced oper ations Y ou can confirm wireless multiple flash operation by checking the ready-light on the SB-800 or the beeping sound during and after shooting. ■ ■ ■ Activating and canceling the SB-800 ’ s beeping sound in the wireless flash mode Wh[...]

90 The SB-800 can be used with Speedlights compatible with the TTL auto flash mode to perfor m multiple flash shooting using cords. • Use of the SB-50DX and SB-23 as remote flash units is not recommended, because the standby function cannot be canceled. • Speedlights SB-11, SB-14, SB-140, and SB-21B cannot be used with the F-401/N4004 or F-401s[...]

91 ■ ■ ■ Notes on multiple flash shooting using cor ds • Be sure to see the instruction manuals of your cameras, Speedlights, and accessories. • Refer to “ System chart for TTL multiple flash shooting using cords ” (p. 94) and your cameras and Speedlights instruction manuals for proper connection. • Use the optional TTL Remote Cords[...]

92 Multiple flash shooting using cords ■ ■ ■ TTL multiple flash (not possib le with cameras compatib le with CLS and digital SLRs not compatible with CLS) 1 Set the camera ’ s e xposure mode to Aperture- Priority Auto (A) or Manual (M). 2 Attach the master flash unit to the camera, turn the power on, and set the flash mode to TTL auto flash[...]

93 ■ ■ ■ Manual m ultiple flash 1 Set the camera ’ s e xposure mode to Aperture- Priority Auto (A) or Manual (M). 2 T ur n off the power and attach the master flash unit to the camera. 3 Connect the sync terminal on the master flash unit to the remote flash unit using the optional Sync Cord SC-11 or SC-15. 4 T ur n on the power of all flash[...]

• Speedlights SB-11, SB-14, SB-140, and SB-21B cannot be used with the F-401/N4004 or F-401s/N4004s as either master or remote flash units. 94 System chart for TTL multiple flash shooting using cords SC-24 SB-21B SB-21A SB-16A SB-17 SC-14 SB-11 SC-23 SB-14 SB-140 SB-16B SB-15 SB-25 SB-26 SB-24 SC-17/ 28/29 SB-27 AS-17 SB-29/29s SB-28/ 28DX SB-22 [...]

95 Advanced oper ations SB-21B SB-16B SB-15 SB-22 SB-20 SC-18/26 (1.5m) SC-19/27 (3m) SC-18/26 SC-19/27 SC-18/26 SC-19/27 SB-25 SB-26 SB-28/28DX SB-27 SB-24 SB-25 SB-26 SB-28/ 28DX SB-24 SB-16B AS-10 AS-10 AS-10 SB-16A AS-11 AS-11 SB-17 SB-800 SB-22s SB-29/29s SB-30 SB-80DX SB-11 SC-23 SB-14 SB-140 SB-800 SB-29/29s SB-80DX AS-11 SB-21A Using SC-18/[...]

96 Flash shooting with digital SLRs cameras using Supplied with the SB-800, the Colored Gel Filter Set SJ-800 includes two filters: the FL-G1 for taking flash pictures under fluor escent light and the TN-A1 for use with incandescent/tungsten light. • Colored Gel Filter Set SJ-1 is also available as an option (p. 112). ■ ■ ■ Using colored ge[...]

97 colored gel filters ■ ■ ■ How to use colored gels 1 Fold the colored gel filter securely on the line . 2 Inser t the colored gel filter between the wide-flash adapter and the flash head. 3 Adjust the white balance setting on your digital camera, then shoot. u Optional Colored Gel Filter Set SJ-1 The optional Colored Gel Filter Set SJ-1 con[...]

98 Bounce flash operation With the SB-800 mounted on your camera ’ s hot shoe, you can tilt or rotate the flash head to bounce the light off the ceiling or walls. This is a good technique to use when shooting indoors, because you get more natural-looking pictur es of people with softer shadows. Also, you can soften the shadows even more by using [...]

99 1 Set the camera ’ s e xposure mode to Aperture- Priority Auto (A) or Manual (M). 2 Set the camera ’ s metering system to Matrix Metering Y or Center-Weighted Metering W . 3 Set the flash mode to TTL or A uto Aperture or Non-TTL auto flash. 4 Set the camera ’ s aperture. • Refer to page 100 for setting the aperture. 5 Adjust the flash he[...]

100 Bounce flash operation ■ ■ ■ Setting the aperture In bounce flash, there is a light loss of 2 – 3 stops when compar ed with normal flash photography . Therefor e, you should use a wider aperture. When the flash head is adjusted to other than the horizontal/front position, the flash shooting distance range indicator on the SB-800 disappe[...]

101 u Using the built-in bounce car d In bounce flash photography , use the SB-800 ’ s built-in bounce card to create a highlight in the subject ’ s eyes, making the eyes look more vibrant. • As shown in the illustrations, pull out the wide-flash adapter and while holding the bounce card, slide the wide-flash adapter back into place inside th[...]

102 Close-up flash operation When the built-in wide-flash adapter is used, close-up flash shooting can be perfor med. The built-in wide-flash adapter diffuses the light fr om the flash to soften shadows. When the SB-800 is used off-camera, you can take mor e natural-looking close-up pictures. • Be sure to use the wide-flash adapter when taking cl[...]

103 1 Set the camera ’ s e xposure mode to Aperture- Priority Auto (A) or Manual (M). 2 Set the camera ’ s metering system to Matrix Metering Y or Center-Weighted Metering W . 3 Set the SB-800 ’ s flash mode to TTL auto flash. 4 P osition the b uilt-in wide-flash adapter ov er the flash head. Press the c or d button to adjust the zoom-head po[...]

104 Close-up flash operation ■ ■ ■ Setting the built-in wide-flash adapter and adjusting the zoom-head position 1 Slowly pull out the wide-flash adapter all the wa y , and position it ov er the flash head. Then slide the bounce card back into place inside the flash head. 2 Press the c or d button to adjust the zoom head position to 14mm or 17[...]

105 u When shooting subjects closer than 0.6m (2 ft.) With the SB-800 attached to the camera, sufficient illumination of the subject cannot be obtained. In this case, use the SB-800 off-camera by attaching the optional TTL Remote Cord as shown below . • In Do flash operation where Monitor Preflashes are fir ed, when the SB-800 is used with D/G-ty[...]

106 • The farthest flash shooting distance cannot be read on the SB-800 ’ s LCD panel. In this case, use the guide number table and equation for calculating this distance, according to each zoom-head position. D (f ar thest flash shooting distance) = Guide number ÷ f/stop (aperture) Guide number (m/ft.) in the 1/300 TTL High-Speed Flash sync m[...]

Reference information Optional accessories, T roubleshooting, Speedlight care, Specifications, etc. are presented here.[...]

108 TTL auto flash modes available with the SB- 800 The available types of TTL auto flash vary , depending on the camera/lens/ exposure mode/metering system in use. The following tables show the SB-800 ’ s TTL mode indicators and the corresponding ones used in the current Speedlight manuals when the flash unit is used with various cameras not com[...]

109 Reference inf ormation Camera Current TTL TTL mode Exposure Metering Lens mode display mode system F4-Series D F P/S/A/M Y CPU lens ∗ 1 D F A/M Y Non-CPU lens ∗ 2 D F ∗ 3 P/S/A/M W CPU lens ∗ 1 D F ∗ 3 A/M W Non-CPU lens D P/S/A/M YWX CPU lens ∗ 1 D A/M YWX Non-CPU lens ∗ 1: The A and M exposure modes cannot be used with a G-type [...]

110 TTL auto flash modes available with the SB- 800 Camera Current TTL TTL mode Exposure Metering Lens mode display mode system F-601 M / D P/S Y CPU lens ∗ 1 N6000 D P/S W CPU lens ∗ 1 D A/M W Non-CPU lens ∗ 1 D P/S YW CPU lens D A/M W Non-CPU lens ∗ 1: Only D appears on the SB-800 ’ s LCD panel. Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash or Center- Wei[...]

111 Optional accessories Reference inf ormation ■ ■ ■ Accessories for m ultiple flash TTL Remote Cord SC-29/28/17 (appr ox. 1.5m or 4.9 ft) TTL Remote Cord SC-24 (approx. 1.5m or 4.9 ft) TTL Remote Cords SC-29/SC-28/SC-17/SC-24 provide TTL auto flash operation when the SB-800 is used off-camera. Their flash shoes come with one tripod socket a[...]

TTL Flash Unit Coupler AS-17 for F3-Series cameras Dedicated adapter for F3-Series cameras providing TTL flash operation with Nikon Speedlights such as the SB-800 featuring an ISO-type mounting foot (not designed for the F3). Brack et SK-7 A metal plate with attachment screws allowing the camera and Speedlight to be positioned side by side. Use the[...]

113 Reference inf ormation ■ ■ ■ Using external po wer sources Connecting to an external power sour ce T o use an exter nal power source, remove the cover and connect its power cord to the SB-800 ’ s external power source terminal. • Using external power sources made by another manufacturer is not recommended. Specifications ∗ 1 With AA[...]

W ARNING Never use thinner , benzene, or other active agents for cleaning the Speedlight, as this may damage the Speedlight or cause it to catch on fire. Using these agents may also impair your health. ■ ■ ■ Cleaning • Use a blower brush to remove dirt and dust from the SB-800 and clean it with a soft, clean cloth. After using the SB-800 ne[...]

115 Notes on batteries Reference inf ormation ■ ■ ■ Usable batteries Use four (or five) AA-type batteries (1.5V or lower) of any of the following types. • High-power manganese batteries are not recommended. • Using the Quick Recycling Battery Pack SD-800 (p. 64) or an external power source (p. 113) increases the number of flashes and prov[...]

116 T roubleshooting If a warning indication appears on the SB-800 ’ s LCD panel or inside the camera ’ s viewfinder , use the following char t to determine the cause of the problem befor e you take your Speedlight to a Nikon service center for repair . ■ ■ ■ Prob lems with the SB-800 Problem The power cannot be turned on. The ready-light[...]

117 Reference inf ormation ■ ■ ■ If the built-in wide-flash adapter is br oken off accidentall y If the wide-flash adapter is subjected to a strong impact while set on the flash head, it may be broken of f. In this case, visit your nearest authorized Nikon service center for repair . • When the wide-flash adapter is broken off, it is no lon[...]

118 T roubleshooting ■ ■ ■ Ready-light warning inside the camera ’ s viewfinder Note The SB-800 incorporates a microcomputer to control flash operations. In rar e cases, the SB-800 may not work properly even after fresh batteries ar e properly installed. If this happens, replace the batteries while the SB-800 ’ s power is turned on. W arn[...]

119 About the LCD panel Reference inf ormation ■ ■ ■ Characteristics of the LCD panel • Due to the directional characteristics of LCDs, the LCD display is difficult to r ead when viewed from above. However , the display can be seen clearly from a somewhat lower angle. • The LCD display becomes darker at high temperatures (approx. 60 ° C/[...]

120 Specifications Electronic construction Automatic Insulated Gate Bipolar T ransistor (IGBT) and series circuitry Guide number (at 35mm zoom-head position, 20 ° C/68 ° F) 38/125 (ISO 100, m/ft), 53/174 (ISO 200, m/ft) Flash shooting distance range (TTL auto flash/ Auto Aperture flash/ Non-TTL auto flash) 0.6m to 20m (2 to 66 ft.) (varies depend[...]

121 Reference inf ormation Bounce capability Flash head tilts down to – 7 ° or up to 90 ° with click-stops at – 7 ° , 0 ° , 4 5 ° , 60 ° , 75 ° , 90 ° ; flash head rotates horizontally 180 ° to the left or 90 ° to the right with click-stops at 0 ° , 30 ° , 60 ° , 90 ° , 120 ° , 150 ° , 180 ° n Press the b button for appr ox. 0.[...]

122 Specifications Other functions Recalling the underexposur e value in the TTL auto flash mode, Resetting the settings, Button lock Built-in wide- Allows SB-800 to be used with 14mm or 17mm lens flash adapter Dimensions Approx. 70.5 x 129.5 x 93.0mm (2.8 x 5.1 x 3.7 in.) (W x H x D) Mounting foot Provides secur e attachment of SB-800 to camera ?[...]

123 Reference inf ormation W eight Approx. 350g (12.3 oz.) (without batteries) Accessories Quick Recycling Battery Pack SD-800, Speedlight Stand AS-19, Colored Gel Filter Set SJ-800, Nikon Dif fusion Dome SW-10H, External power source terminal cap, Soft Case SS-800 supplied These perfor mance specifications are applicable when fr esh batteries are [...]

124 Symbol e / f button .............................................12 i-TTL mode ...............................................36 A AF-ILL .......................................................62 AF-ILL ONL Y.............................................62 Accessories ............................................111 Advanced Wireless Lighting ...[...]

125 I ISO sensitivity ...........................................24 ISO sensitivity factors ...............................43 Icons .........................................................13 L LCD panel illuminator .............................119 LCD panel ..............................................119 M MASTER ................................[...]

En Printed in Japan TT3H03000101 (11) 8MSA0611-- No reproduction in any form of this manual, in whole or in part (except for brief quotation in critical articles or reviews), may be made without written authorization from NIKON CORPORA TION. SB - 800 (En) SB-800 Autofocus Speedlight Instruction Manual[...]